Covenant Renewal Update
Strengthening Our Gospel Community
This Fall
I want to express how deeply I value the privilege of shepherding our church and guiding us in our passionate pursuit of Jesus together. Every decision made to sharpen our collective devotion to Jesus is shaped with hours of prayer, thoughtful consideration, and wise counsel.
Care and Adaptability
As we approach this season of covenant partnership renewal, Redeemer Church will reestablish consistent rhythms in new groups of Gospel Communities. This process ensures that all Covenant Partners remain vibrant, effective, and aligned with our mission.
Multiplication and Overcoming Challenges
We are excited to announce the multiplication of all Gospel Communities (GCs) starting the last week in August. Every single Gospel Community is going to multiply to ensure that each GC is led by a collective group of deacons at Redeemer Church. A Gospel Community is a family of Redeemer families that make much of Jesus together. These Gospel Communities will be led by biblically qualified deacons, as laid out in our shepherding covenant:
"We will ensure our leaders meet biblical criteria. We covenant that the Redeemer elders and deacons will meet the criteria assigned to them in the Scriptures (I Timothy 3:1–13; 5:17–22; Titus 1:5–9; I Peter 5:1–4)."
Multiplication is a positive step toward growth and renewal within our church. We recognize that change can be challenging, especially when it involves beloved communities. It’s common to feel a strong attachment to your current GC and to the people within it. However, we believe that this multiplication will ultimately lead to greater flourishing for everyone at Redeemer Church. By expanding and multiplying our Gospel Communities, we create more opportunities for connection, growth, and discipleship under the loving guidance of our deacons. We trust that this step will enrich our collective pursuit of Jesus and strengthen our bonds as a church family.
How the Team of Redeemer Deacons Leads in Gospel Communities
Since establishing deacons in 2023, we have been committed to ensuring a collective leadership effort within every Gospel Community. This shared leadership model fosters a strong, supportive, and spiritually enriching environment for all members.
Definition and Role of Deacons
A deacon at Redeemer is a dedicated servant leader within their GC, devoted to authentic Christ-centered discipleship and embodying Christlike character. Our deacons are the primary culture shapers of Redeemer, helping to establish and maintain the culture of our Gospel-centered, disciple-making family. Their responsibilities include:
Authentic Christ-Centered Discipleship: Leading by example in their devotion to Jesus, guiding others in their spiritual growth, and building a culture of disciple-making.
Embodiment of Christlike Character: Demonstrating humility, love, and integrity, inspiring others to live out their faith in practical ways.
Collective Effort in Leadership: Working harmoniously with other covenant partners to ensure that all GCs have a shared experience of joyful identification as part of the Redeemer family, magnifying Jesus together.
Responsibilities of Redeemer Church Leadership
Redeemer Church Leadership is responsible for:
Organizing Groups: Ensuring that each GC is organized with members utilizing their spiritual gifts for the flourishing of the testimony of the gospel. Leadership will continually multiply growth and be willing to prune what isn’t working.
Ensuring Standards: Maintaining a spirit of unity, humility, and shared vision.
Supporting Childcare: Providing financial support for childcare if needed within the group. Childcare specifics are for children four and below. For children five and above, the church encourages children to stay with parents or follow the kids' lessons during GC.
What Makes a Successful Gospel Community
A successful GC requires shared responsibility among the deacons within the group who work together for clear delegation. Here are key roles that contribute to a thriving GC:
Childcare Coordinator and Team: Organizes and oversees childcare and discipleship for children, a crucial role for families' participation. Clear communication about this is vital.
Communicator: Keeps everyone informed about the time and location of weekly gatherings.
Hospitality Coordinator or Team: Creates a welcoming environment and manages logistics for gatherings. Remember, GCs are rarely canceled, with exceptions for major holidays.
Facilitator: Guides discussions, ensuring they are Christ-centered and engaging.
By fulfilling these roles with dedication and care, deacons can ensure that Gospel Communities at Redeemer Church remain vibrant, supportive, and spiritually enriching for all members.
Click QR code to fill out the form to be connected to a GC!
Conclusion: Working Together in Joyful Magnification
Remember the words of the Apostle Paul in Eph 4:3 and Phil 1:3-5 "Make every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further support.
-Pastor Cody
